Miami: South Korean slugger Moon Bo-gyeong expressed his determination on Wednesday to reach the championship final of the World Baseball Classic (WBC), after traveling from Tokyo to Miami for the knockout stages. Speaking at a practice session at Florida International University Baseball Stadium, Moon emphasized that he didn't come all this way for just one knockout game, highlighting the team's goal of making it to the finals. The South Korean team had just arrived in Miami after completing four opening round games in Tokyo earlier in March.
According to Yonhap News Agency, South Korea's next opponent in the quarterfinals was still undecided, with the Dominican Republic and Venezuela battling for the top seed in Pool D at loanDepot park in Miami. The winner would face South Korea, the Pool C runner-up, on Friday in the knockout round. Moon, who leads the WBC with 11 RBIs in four games, is aware of the challenges ahead, especially against either of the formidable opponents.
Moon expressed his mindset of focusing on the present, stating, "I always tend to forget about the past quickly, good or bad." With the upcoming quarterfinals, he emphasized the importance of preparation rather than dwelling on previous performances. Moon remains optimistic about South Korea's chances, citing a recent upset where the U.S. lost to Italy, and believes that anything is possible.
Both potential opponents, the Dominican Republic and Venezuela, have strong lineups and pitching staff, yet Moon remains undaunted. He expressed confidence in South Korea's capabilities, stating, "I think nothing is impossible." Moon is currently tied with former slugger Kim Tae-kyun for the most RBIs by a South Korean player in a single WBC tournament and has the opportunity to surpass Kim's record in fewer games.
Moon concluded by shifting focus away from personal achievements and emphasizing team success, saying, "I've never thought about my individual numbers. I just want us to win the way we did in Tokyo." South Korea's journey in the WBC continues as they prepare for their crucial quarterfinal matchup.